The union territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli has its own distinct tribal culture which includes various rituals, festivals and folk dances. Majority of the population are Hindus although religious observations differ. More than 80% people live in villages and participate in various celebrations of fairs and festivals from time to time.

The rituals play a predominant role in the life of tribal communities of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, particularly the Varlis. For these tribals, the Sun and the Moon are the two eyes of God. The stone images of these deities are found in the midst of tree groves which are considered sacred.

A bhagat performs rituals singing prayers of deities while playing Ghangal, a musical instrument made from gourd, bamboo and iron strings. Almost every village has a temple of traditional God and a local deity.

All popular Hindu, Christian and Muslim festivals are celebrated here with equal fervour. But the tribal festivals have their own distinct features, as this mark the change of season and provide glimpses on social and cultural panorama.

The major festivals celebrated in the UT include Diwali, Akha Tij, Divaso and Raksha Bandhan etc. Other annual fairs and festivals include Tarpa Festival & Craft Mela, Kite Festival and Monsoon Magic festival etc.

Dance and music are essential parts of DNH tribal folk culture. All occasions viz. marriages and festivals in tribal life seem incomplete without folk dances.

The major dances are Tarpa, Dhol, Bhavada and Gherria. These dances are performed simultaneously with musical instruments and some folk lyrics which recount the glories and feats of the history of DNH. The tribals make their own musical instruments using local products of gourd, bamboo, wood and leather etc.